Hike, Horseback Ride, Zipline, and Wakeboard with kids on the Most Beautiful Lake in Texas!

Posted: May 08, 2026

Senior Counselor

YMCA Camp Grady Spruce

Graford, Texas

Wages/Pay
$280.00 - $315.00 / week
Experience Level
No experience required
Job Start Date
May 17, 2026

Under the direct supervision of the Administrative Staff and Camp Director, the Camp Counselor plays a huge role in creating an unforgettable experience for campers while helping build confidence, character, teamwork, and lifelong memories! This position works directly with children and serves as a positive role model who reflects the mission, values, and spirit of the YMCA and its Camping Program every day. Food and lodging are provided during resident camp sessions and program delivery. Staff members are expected to work closely and cooperatively with the Camp Director and fellow team members to create a safe, supportive, high energy camp environment where both campers and staff can thrive.

What You’ll Do

Camp Counselors are involved in all aspects of camp life and help create a fun, engaging, and welcoming experience for every camper. Counselors will work with an assigned group of 8 to 10 campers ages 7 to 16 and are responsible for their supervision and care while they are with the YMCA.

Responsibilities include:

  • Leading and participating in daily camp activities and programs

  • Creating a positive, inclusive, and encouraging environment for campers

  • Providing diverse and engaging experiences throughout each camp session

  • Encouraging campers to participate in group decisions whenever possible

  • Ensuring the safety and well-being of all campers at all times

  • Helping maintain a clean, organized, and safe camp environment

  • Respecting and preserving the natural camp setting

  • Properly using, caring for, and storing camp equipment

  • Maintaining a neat and professional appearance, including wearing appropriate staff shirts during opening and closing days

  • Reporting all accidents and incidents to the Camp Director and completing required Accident Reports accurately

  • Attending all staff trainings, meetings, and in-service sessions

  • Reading, understanding, and following all Camp Staff Manual policies and guidelines

  • Following scheduled activities and camp routines

  • Maintaining positive discipline and behavior management with campers

  • Understanding emergency procedures and being prepared to implement drills when necessary

  • Communicating with parents about their child’s camp experience

  • Potentially calling camper parents each session to introduce yourself and answer questions

  • Supervising campers during field trips and following all field trip policies

  • Assisting with the development and implementation of camp themes and special events

  • Supporting fellow staff members and helping create a positive team atmosphere

  • Most importantly, bringing energy, enthusiasm, and fun to camp every single day

All camp staff are encouraged to communicate openly with the Assistant Camp Director or Camp Director regarding any needs, concerns, or support they may have throughout the season.

Additional responsibilities may be assigned by the Camp Director, Assistant Camp Director, Specialist Director, and/or Program Director. All staff members are required to work one weekend. Senior Counselors may also assist with programming at Ray Bean for conferences and retreats.

If you love working with kids, being outdoors, building friendships, and making a real impact every day, this is an incredible opportunity to spend your summer doing meaningful work while having a blast.

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How to Apply

Please click the link and filter the location by Graford, TX to apply for the Camp Grady Spruce Senior Counselor position. 

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Contact Info

YMCA Camp Grady Spruce

Established in 1989, the residential Outdoor Education program at YMCA Camp Grady Spruce is devoted to helping teachers educate students about the interrelationship and interdependence between man and the environment. The OE Program operates during the school year and is primarily focused on the curriculum 5th grade students. Instructors teach kids canoeing, horseback riding, archery, and more!

Location
Texas
Season
Summer
Staff size
40- 60
Housing
Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
Housing details
Summer staff live right in the heart of camp, sharing cabins with campers and fellow counselors throughout the season. Cabin housing creates a fun, close knit community and gives staff the opportunity to build strong connections with campers while creating an engaging and supportive environment. Housing is provided during camp sessions, and staff accommodations include basic camp style living with access to shared restrooms and shower facilities. Living on site allows staff to fully experience the energy, friendships, and unforgettable moments that make summer camp so special.
Family housing available
No
Single occupancy housing available
No
Pet friendly
No
Meals
Provided
Cell phone service
Yes, most carriers
Internet access
Intermittent
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